Exercise machine for muscle speed and explosiveness

ABSTRACT

As shown in FIG.  1  the exercise machine of the preferred embodiments includes a mechanical force input interface designed to interface with a user and allow the user to input force into the exercise machine; a force resistor that functions to resist force input into the mechanical force input interface by a user; and a trigger mechanism that functions to cause a sudden change in the resistance provided against the force input by the user. The exercise machine of the preferred embodiments is designed to exercise muscles in a way that improves muscle speed, explosiveness, or both. The exercise machine of the preferred embodiments may be configured to exercise any muscle of the human body in any motion, providing any muscle in any motion with increased muscle speed, explosiveness, or both. The exercise machine of the preferred embodiments, however, may be used for any suitable purpose.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Generally, the field of the invention is an exercise machine.Specifically, the field of the invention is an exercise machine thatenhances muscle speed and explosiveness.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the force resistor comprises at least oneweight.

FIG. 3 a is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the force resistor comprises a hydraulicdevice.

FIG. 3 b is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the force resistor comprises a pneumaticdevice.

FIG. 3 c is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the force resistor comprises at least onespring.

FIG. 3 d is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the force resistor comprises at least oneelastic member.

FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the force resistor comprises a frictiondevice.

FIG. 5 a is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the force resistor comprises anelectromechanical device.

FIG. 5 b is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the force resistor comprises a magneticdevice.

FIG. 5 c is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the force resistor comprises anelectromagnetic device.

FIG. 5 d is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the force resistor comprises an actuator.

FIG. 5 e is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the force resistor comprises a flowingfluid adapted to induce drag.

FIG. 6 a is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the mechanical force input interfacecomprises at least one pedal.

FIG. 6 b is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the mechanical force input interfacecomprises a platform.

FIG. 6 c is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the mechanical force input interfacecomprises at least one padded structural member.

FIG. 7 a is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the mechanical force input interfacecomprises a bar.

FIG. 7 b is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the mechanical force input interfacecomprises at least one strap.

FIG. 7 c is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the mechanical force input interfacecomprises at least one handle.

FIG. 8 a is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the mechanical force input interfacecomprises an article of clothing.

FIG. 8 b is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the mechanical force input interfacecomprises at least one shoe.

FIG. 8 c is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the mechanical force input interfacecomprises at least one glove.

FIG. 9 a is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the mechanical force input interfacecomprises at least one pedal, and wherein the force resistor comprisesat least one of (a) a hydraulic device, (b) a pneumatic device, (c) atleast one weight, (d) at least one spring, and (e) at least one elasticelement.

FIG. 9 b is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the mechanical force input interfacecomprises a platform, and wherein the force resistor comprises at leastone of (a) a hydraulic device, (b) a pneumatic device, (c) at least oneweight, (d) at least one spring, and (e) at least one elastic element.

FIG. 9 c is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the mechanical force input interfacecomprises at least one padded structural member, and wherein the forceresistor comprises at least one of (a) a hydraulic device, (b) apneumatic device, (c) at least one weight, (d) at least one spring, and(e) at least one elastic element.

FIG. 10 a is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the coupling between the mechanical forceinput interface and the force resistor comprises at least one cable.

FIG. 10 b is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the coupling between the mechanical forceinput interface and the trigger mechanism comprises at least one cable.

FIG. 11 a is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the coupling between the mechanical forceinput interface and the force resistor comprises at least one cable, andwherein the mechanical force input interface comprises a bar.

FIG. 11 b is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the coupling between the mechanical forceinput interface and the trigger mechanism comprises at least one cable,and wherein the mechanical force input interface comprises a bar.

FIG. 11 c is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the coupling between the mechanical forceinput interface and the force resistor comprises at least one cable, andwherein the mechanical force input interface comprises at least onehandle.

FIG. 11 d is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the coupling between the mechanical forceinput interface and the trigger mechanism comprises at least one cable,and wherein the mechanical force input interface comprises at least onehandle.

FIG. 11 e is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the coupling between the mechanical forceinput interface and the force resistor comprises at least one cable, andwherein the mechanical force input interface comprises at least onestrap.

FIG. 11 f is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the coupling between the mechanical forceinput interface and the trigger mechanism comprises at least one cable,and wherein the mechanical force input interface comprises at least onestrap.

FIG. 12 is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the trigger mechanism comprises adisconnect, wherein the disconnect is adapted to transmit force betweenthe force resistor and the mechanical force input interface, wherein thedisconnect is further adapted to uncouple the force resistor and themechanical force input interface.

FIG. 13 a is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the uncoupling of the disconnect hasreduced the resistance force transmitted between the force resistor andthe mechanical force input interface.

FIG. 13 b is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the uncoupling of the disconnect haseliminated the resistance force transmission between the force resistorand the mechanical force input interface.

FIG. 13 c is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the uncoupling of the disconnect haschanged the direction of the resistance force transmitted between theforce resistor and the mechanical force input interface.

FIG. 14 a is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment before the action of the trigger mechanism, whereinthere is resistance force transmitted between the force resistor and themechanical force input interface.

FIG. 14 b is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment after the action of the trigger mechanism, whereinthe resistance force transmitted between the force resistor and themechanical force input interface has been reduced.

FIG. 14 c is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment after the action of the trigger mechanism, whereinthe resistance force transmitted between the force resistor and themechanical force input interface has been eliminated.

FIG. 14 d is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment after the action of the trigger mechanism, whereinthe resistance force transmitted between the force resistor and themechanical force input interface has been changed in direction.

FIG. 15 a is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment further comprising a transmission.

FIG. 15 b is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment further comprising a transmission wherein thetransmission is adapted to control the amount of force transmittedbetween the force resistor and the mechanical force input interface.

FIG. 15 c is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment further comprising a transmission wherein thetransmission is adapted to control the direction of the forcetransmitted between the force resistor and the mechanical force inputinterface.

FIG. 16 is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the trigger mechanism is coupled to atrigger.

FIG. 17 a is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the trigger comprises a mechanical system.

FIG. 17 b is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the trigger comprises an electronic system.

FIG. 17 c is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the trigger comprises an electromechanicalsystem.

FIG. 17 d is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the trigger comprises processor coupled toan electronic system.

FIG. 17 e is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the trigger comprises processor coupled toan electromechanical system.

FIG. 18 is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the trigger controls the trigger mechanismautomatically.

FIG. 19 is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the user controls the trigger.

FIG. 20 is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the user controls at least one triggersystem and at least one trigger system comprises automatic control.

FIG. 21 is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment further comprising a forcing device, wherein theforcing device applies force to the mechanical force input interfaceassisting the force input into the mechanical force input interface bythe user.

FIG. 22 a is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the forcing device comprises at least onespring.

FIG. 22 b is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the forcing device comprises at least oneelastic element.

FIG. 22 c is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the forcing device comprises an actuator.

FIG. 22 d is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the forcing device comprises a pneumaticdevice.

FIG. 22 e is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the forcing device comprises a hydraulicdevice.

FIG. 22 f is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the forcing device comprises anelectromagnetic device.

FIG. 22 g is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the forcing device comprises anelectromechanical device.

FIG. 22 h is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the forcing device comprises a magneticdevice.

FIG. 23 a is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment further comprising a forcing device, wherein theforcing device applies force to the mechanical force input interfaceassisting the force input into the mechanical force input interface bythe user, represented before the action of the trigger mechanism.

FIG. 23 b is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment further comprising a forcing device, representedafter the action of the trigger mechanism, wherein the action of thetrigger mechanism has caused the net force applied to the mechanicalforce input interface by the force resistor and the forcing device to bein assistance to the force input to the mechanical force input interfaceby the user.

FIG. 24 a is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment further comprising a forcing device, wherein theforcing device applies force to the mechanical force input interfaceassisting the force input into the mechanical force input interface bythe user, wherein the trigger mechanism comprises a disconnect.

FIG. 24 b is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment further comprising a forcing device, wherein thetrigger mechanism comprises a disconnect, wherein the uncoupling of thedisconnect has caused the net force applied to the mechanical forceinput interface by the force resistor and the forcing device to be inassistance to the force input to the mechanical force input interface bythe user.

FIG. 25 is a schematic representation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment wherein the user inputs force into the mechanicalforce input interface cyclically, wherein the trigger mechanism isadapted to operate cyclically.

FIG. 26 is a flow chart representation of the system of the secondpreferred embodiment.

FIG. 27 is a flow chart representation of the system of the secondpreferred embodiment wherein the sudden change in the resistance forceapplied to the motion of the user is adapted to occur within the rangeof motion of a motion of the user and during a motion of the user.

FIG. 28 is a flow chart representation of the system of the secondpreferred embodiment wherein a motion of the user is cyclical and thesudden change in the resistance force applied to the motion of the usertakes place in the cyclical user motion.

FIG. 29 a is a schematic representation of the system of the thirdpreferred embodiment wherein the exercise device is coupled to the pieceof sports equipment.

FIG. 29 b is a schematic representation of the system of the thirdpreferred embodiment wherein the exercise device is integrated into thepiece sports equipment.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following description of the preferred embodiments of the inventionis intended to enable someone skilled in the prior art to make and usethis invention, but is not intended to limit the invention to thesepreferred embodiments.

1. First Preferred Embodiment

As shown in FIG. 1 the exercise machine of the preferred embodimentsincludes a mechanical force input interface 1 designed to interface witha user 5 and allow the user 5 to input force 4 into the exercisemachine; a force resistor 2 that functions to resist force input intothe mechanical force input interface 1 by a user 5; and a triggermechanism 3 that functions to cause a sudden change in the resistanceprovided against the force input 4 by the user 5. The exercise machineof the preferred embodiments is designed to exercise muscles in a waythat improves muscle speed, explosiveness, or both. The exercise machineof the preferred embodiments may be configured to exercise any muscle ofthe body in any motion, providing any muscle in any motion withincreased muscle speed, explosiveness, or both. The exercise machine ofthe preferred embodiments, however, may be used for any suitablepurpose.

The change in the resistance provided against the force input 4 by theuser 5 into the exercise machine of the system of the first preferredembodiment preferably functions to reduce the resistance force themachine provides against the force input 4 by the user 5. In a secondpreferred variation, the change in resistance provided against the forceinput 4 by the user 5 functions to provide force assisting the forceinput 4 by the user 5, preferably making the motion of the user 5easier, but alternatively acting in any suitable manner. Alternatively,the change in resistance provided against the force input 4 by the user5 functions to change the direction of the resistance provided againstthe force input 4 by the user 5. The change in the resistance providedagainst the force input 4 by the user 5 may, however, function in anysuitable manner. Preferably the change in resistance provided againstthe force input 4 by the user 5 occurs quickly, though it may occur atany suitable rate or over any suitable period of time.

As shown in FIG. 1, in a first preferred variation of the system of thefirst preferred embodiment, the force resistor 2 is coupled to themechanical force input interface 1. As shown in FIG. 1, in a secondpreferred variation the force resistor 2 is coupled to the triggermechanism 3. As shown in FIG. 1, in an alternative variation the forceresistor 2 is coupled to both the mechanical force input interface 1 andto the trigger mechanism 3. The force resistor 2 may, however, becoupled to any suitable combination of the trigger mechanism 3 and themechanical force input interface 1, or through any other suitabledevices, and in any suitable manner that allows the force resistor 2 totransmit resistance to the user 5.

As shown in FIG. 2, in a first preferred variation of the force resistor2 of the first preferred embodiment, the force resistor 2 includes oneor more weights 6. As shown in FIG. 3 a, in a second preferred variationthe force resistor 2 includes a hydraulic device 7. As shown in FIG. 3b, in a third preferred variation the force resistor 2 includes apneumatic device 8. As shown in FIG. 3 c, in a fourth preferredvariation the force resistor 2 includes one or more springs 9. As shownin FIG. 3 d, in a fifth preferred variation the force resistor 2includes one or more elastic elements 10. As shown in FIG. 4, in analternative variation the force resistor 2 includes a friction mechanism11. As shown in FIG. 5 a, in another alternative variation the forceresistor 2 includes an electromechanical device 12, preferably designedto exert force in resistance to the force input 4 by the user 5. Asshown in FIG. 5 b, in another alternative variation the force resistor 2includes a magnetic device 13. In a first preferred variation of themagnetic device 13, the magnetic device 13 includes a permanent magnetand a magnetic induction device designed to produce resistance force. Ina second preferred variation of the magnetic device 13, the magneticdevice 13 includes two or more permanent magnets designed to produce aresistance force between them; however the magnetic device 13 may haveany suitable design. As shown in FIG. 5 c, in another alternativevariation the force resistor 2 includes an electromagnetic device 14. Ina first preferred variation of the electromagnetic device 14, theelectromagnetic device 14 includes an electromagnet and a magneticinduction device designed to produce resistance force. In a secondpreferred variation of the electromagnetic device 14, theelectromagnetic device 14 includes one or more electromagnets and one ormore permanent magnets designed to produce a resistance force betweenthem. In a third preferred variation of the electromagnetic device 14,the electromagnetic device 14 includes two or more electromagnetsdesigned to produce a resistance force between them, however theelectromagnetic device 14 may have any suitable design. As shown in FIG.5 d, in another alternative variation the force resistor 2 includes anactuator 15. As shown in FIG. 5 e, in another alternative variation theforce resistor 2 includes a flowing fluid designed to induce drag 16 andcreate a resistance force opposing the force input 4 by the user 5. In afirst preferred variation of the flowing fluid designed to induce drag16, the flowing fluid designed to induce drag 16 includes a flowingfluid passing through a device including an object in the fluid streamthat is designed to undergo a drag force in the fluid stream. In asecond preferred variation of the flowing fluid designed to induce drag16, the flowing fluid designed to induce drag 16 includes a flowingfluid passing over a part of the user 5 and designed to create a dragforce on that part of the user 5. In a third preferred variation of theflowing fluid designed to induce drag 16, the flowing fluid designed toinduce drag 16 includes a drag inducing object attached to the user 5 orworn by the user 5 and designed to create a drag force when in the pathof the flowing fluid 16. The force resistor 2 may, however, include anysuitable combination of these variations and may, alternatively, includeany suitable device or combination of devices.

As shown in FIG. 1, in a preferred variation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment, the mechanical force input interface 1 is coupledto the force resistor 2. As shown in FIG. 1, in a second preferredvariation the mechanical force input interface 1 is coupled to thetrigger mechanism 3. As shown in FIG. 1, in a third preferred variationthe mechanical force input interface 1 is coupled to both the triggermechanism 3 and the force resistor 2. The mechanical force inputinterface 1 may, however, be coupled to any suitable combination of theforce resistor 2 and the trigger mechanism 3, or through any othersuitable devices, and in any suitable manner that allows the mechanicalforce input interface 1 to receive force input 4 by the user 5 andallows the mechanical force input interface 1 to receive and transmitresistance force from the force resistor 2.

As shown in FIG. 6 a, in a first preferred variation of the mechanicalforce input interface 1 of the system of the first preferred embodiment,the mechanical force input interface 1 includes one or more pedals 17.As shown in FIG. 6 b, in a second preferred variation the mechanicalforce input interface 1 includes a platform 18. As shown in FIG. 6 c, ina third preferred variation the mechanical force input interface 1includes one or more padded structural members 19. The one or morepadded structural members 19 preferably include a bar or tube covered ina pad or pad material and attached to a structure that preferably pivotsor slides. The one or more padded structural members 19 may, however,include any suitable components and configuration, and may move in anysuitable manner. As shown in FIG. 7 a, in a fourth preferred variationthe mechanical force input interface 1 includes a bar 20. The bar 20 ispreferably designed to have the user 5 hold onto the bar 20 with one orboth of the user's hands, though the bar 20 may have any suitabledesign. As shown in FIG. 7 b, in a fifth preferred variation themechanical force input interface 1 includes one or more straps 21. In afirst preferred variation of the one or more straps 21, the one or morestraps 21 are designed to have the user 5 hold the one or more strapswith one or both of the user's hands. In a second preferred variation ofthe one or more straps 21, the one or more straps 21 are designed tohave the user 5 place the one or more straps around one of: one or moreof their feet, one or more of their ankles, one or more of their legs,or any combination of these. In a third preferred variation of the oneor more straps 21, the one or more straps 21 are designed to have theuser 5 place the one or more straps around one of: one or more of theirwrists, one or more of their arms, or any combination of these. The oneor more straps 21 may, however, have any suitable design. As shown inFIG. 7 c, in a sixth preferred variation the mechanical force inputinterface 1 includes one or more handles 22. The one or more handles 22are preferably designed to have the user 5 hold onto the one or morehandles 22 with one or both of the user's hands, though the one or morehandles 22 may have any suitable design. As shown in FIG. 8 a, in analternative variation the mechanical force input interface 1 includes anarticle of clothing 23. The article of clothing 23 preferably includesone of: a shirt, pants, a vest, shorts, or any other item worn on thebody, and preferably includes a strap, cable, ring, or any othersuitable attachment point capable of transmitting force. In analternative variation of the article of clothing 23, the article ofclothing 23 includes magnets or magnetic inductance elements. Thearticle of clothing 23 may, however, have any suitable design thatallows it to act as a mechanical force input interface 1. As shown inFIG. 8 b, in another alternative variation the mechanical force inputinterface 1 includes one or more shoes 24. The one or more shoes 24preferably include a strap, cable, ring or any other suitable attachmentpoint capable of transmitting force. In an alternative variation of theone or more shoes 24, the one or more shoes 24 include magnets ormagnetic inductance elements. In another alternative variation of theone or more shoes 24, the one or more shoes 24 include drag inducingobjects designed to interact with the flowing fluid designed to inducedrag 16. The one or more shoes 24 may, however, have any suitable designthat allows them to act as a mechanical force input interface 1. Asshown in FIG. 8 c, in another alternative variation the mechanical forceinput interface 1 includes one or more gloves 25. The one or more gloves25 preferably include a strap, cable, ring or any other suitableattachment point capable of transmitting force. In an alternativevariation of the one or more gloves 25, the one or more gloves 25include magnets or magnetic inductance elements. In another alternativevariation of the one or more gloves 25, the one or more gloves 25include drag inducing objects designed to interact with the flowingfluid designed to induce drag 16. The one or more gloves 25 may,however, have any suitable design that allows them to act as amechanical force input interface 1.

As shown in FIG. 9 a, in a first preferred variation of theconfiguration of the system of the first preferred embodiment, themechanical force input interface 1 includes one or more pedals 17 andthe force resistor 2 includes one or more of: a hydraulic device 7, apneumatic device 8, one or more weights 6, one or more springs 9, one ormore elastic elements 10, or any combination of these. In the firstpreferred variation shown in FIG. 9 a, the one or more pedals 17 arepreferably attached to the trigger mechanism 3 and the trigger mechanism3 is preferably attached to the force resistor 2. In the first preferredvariation shown in FIG. 9 a, the action of the trigger mechanism 3preferably quickly releases one of: the attachment of the triggermechanism 3 to the force resistor 2, the attachment of the triggermechanism 3 to the one or more pedals 17, or both, preferably allowingthe one or more pedals 17 to move with reduced or eliminated resistance.In the first preferred variation shown in FIG. 9 a, the one or morepedals 17 preferably slide along a track. In the first preferredvariation as shown in FIG. 9 a, the one or more pedals 17 arealternatively attached to a pivoting structure. In the first preferredvariation as shown in FIG. 9 a, the one or more pedals 17 arealternatively attached to a structure designed to allow them to move inan elliptical or circular motion. The one or more pedals 17 included inthe first preferred variation shown in FIG. 9 a may, however, bedesigned to move in any suitable manner, may be attached in any suitablemanner, and may interact with the trigger mechanism 3 and the forceresistor 2 in any suitable manner. In the first preferred variation asshown in FIG. 9 a, the system preferably includes a seat for the user 5,however the system may include any suitable accommodations for the user5, or may not include any additional structures or accommodations. In asecond preferred variation of the configuration of the system of thefirst preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9 b, the mechanical forceinput interface 1 includes a platform 18 and the force resistor 2includes one or more of: a hydraulic device 7, a pneumatic device 8, oneor more weights 6, one or more springs 9, one or more elastic elements10, or any combination of these. In the second preferred variation shownin FIG. 9 b, the platform 18 is preferably attached to the triggermechanism 3 and the trigger mechanism 3 is preferably attached to theforce resistor 2. In the second preferred variation shown in FIG. 9 b,the action of the trigger mechanism 3 preferably quickly releases oneof: the attachment of the trigger mechanism 3 to the force resistor 2,the attachment of the trigger mechanism 3 to the platform 18, or both,preferably allowing the platform 18 to move with reduced or eliminatedresistance. In the second preferred variation shown in FIG. 9 b, theplatform 18 preferably slides along a track. In the second preferredvariation shown in FIG. 9 b, the platform 18 is alternatively attachedto a pivoting structure. The platform 18 included in the secondpreferred variation shown in FIG. 9 b may, however, be designed to movein any suitable manner, may be attached in any suitable manner, and mayinteract with the trigger mechanism 3 and the force resistor 2 in anysuitable manner. In the second preferred variation shown in FIG. 9 b,the system preferably includes a seat for the user 5, however the systemmay include any suitable accommodations for the user 5, or may notinclude any additional structures or accommodations. In a thirdpreferred variation of the configuration of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9 c, the mechanical force inputinterface 1 includes one or more padded structural members 19 and theforce resistor 2 includes one or more of: a hydraulic device 7, apneumatic device 8, one or more weights 6, one or more springs 9, one ormore elastic elements 10, or any combination of these. In the thirdpreferred variation shown in FIG. 9 c, the one or more padded structuralmembers 19 are preferably attached to the trigger mechanism 3 and thetrigger mechanism 3 is preferably attached to the force resistor 2. Inthe third preferred variation shown in FIG. 9 c, the action of thetrigger mechanism 3 preferably quickly releases one of: the attachmentof the trigger mechanism 3 to the force resistor 2, the attachment ofthe trigger mechanism 3 to the one or more padded structural members 19,or both, preferably allowing the one or more padded structural members19 to move with reduced or eliminated resistance. In the third preferredvariation shown in FIG. 9 c, the one or more padded structural members19 preferably slide along a track. In the third preferred variationshown in FIG. 9 c, the one or more padded structural members 19 arealternatively attached to a pivoting structure. The one or more paddedstructural members 19 included in the third preferred variation shown inFIG. 9 c may, however, be designed to move in any suitable manner, maybe attached in any suitable manner, and may interact with the triggermechanism 3 and the force resistor 2 in any suitable manner. In thethird preferred variation as shown in FIG. 9 c, the system preferablyincludes a seat for the user 5, however the system may include anysuitable accommodations for the user 5, or may not include anyadditional structures or accommodations. In a fourth preferred variationof the configuration of the system of the first preferred embodiment, asshown in FIGS. 10 a and 10 b, the system is configured with one of: thecoupling between the mechanical force input interface 1 and the forceresistor 2 including one or more cables 59, the coupling between themechanical force input interface 1 and the trigger mechanism 3 includingone or more cables 60, or both. As shown in FIGS. 11 a and 11 b, in afirst preferred variation of the configuration shown in FIGS. 10 a and10 b, the mechanical force input interface 1 includes a bar 20.Preferably, as shown in FIG. 11 b, one or more cables 60 connect the bar20 to the trigger mechanism 3 and the trigger mechanism 3 is designed toquickly release one of: the connection of the trigger mechanism 3 to theone or more cables, the connection of the trigger mechanism 3 to theforce resistor 2, or both. Alternatively, one or more cables 59 connectthe bar 20 to the force resistor 2, as shown in FIG. 11 a. However, thecables may be connected to any suitable device in any suitable way andthe trigger mechanism 3 may act in any suitable manner. As shown inFIGS. 11 c and 11 d, in a second preferred variation of theconfiguration shown in FIGS. 10 a and 10 b, the mechanical force inputinterface 1 includes one or more handles 22. Preferably, as shown inFIG. 11 d, one or more cables 60 connect the one or more handles 22 tothe trigger mechanism 3 and the trigger mechanism 3 is designed toquickly release one of: the connection of the trigger mechanism 3 to theone or more cables, the connection of the trigger mechanism 3 to theforce resistor 2, or both. Alternatively, one or more cables 59 connectthe one or more handles 22 to the force resistor 2, as shown in FIG. 11c. However, the cables may be connected to any suitable device in anysuitable way and the trigger mechanism 3 may act in any suitable manner.As shown in FIGS. 11 e and 11 f, in a third preferred variation of theconfiguration shown in FIGS. 10 a and 10 b, the mechanical force inputinterface 1 includes one or more straps 21. Preferably, as shown in FIG.11 f, one or more cables 60 connect the one or more straps 21 to thetrigger mechanism 3 and the trigger mechanism 3 is designed to quicklyrelease one of: the connection of the trigger mechanism 3 to the one ormore cables, the connection of the trigger mechanism 3 to the forceresistor 2, or both. Alternatively, one or more cables 59 connect theone or more straps 21 to the force resistor 2, as shown in FIG. 11 e.However, the cables may be connected to any suitable device in anysuitable way and the trigger mechanism 3 may act in any suitable manner.In the fourth preferred variation of the configuration of the system ofthe first preferred embodiment shown in FIGS. 10 a and 10 b, thecoupling between the mechanical force input interface 1 and one of theforce resistor 2 and the trigger mechanism 3 preferably includes one ormore pulleys which preferably provide a suitable angle for the one ormore cables to attach to the mechanical force input interface 1. The oneor more pulleys may provide an adjustable angle for the one or morecables to attach to the mechanical force input interface 1; however, thecoupling may include any suitable devices and be designed in anysuitable manner.

As shown in FIG. 12, in a first preferred variation of the triggermechanism 3 of the system of the first preferred embodiment, the triggermechanism 3 includes a disconnect 26 coupled to the mechanical forceinput interface 1 and coupled to the force resistor 2. The disconnect 26is designed to transmit force 27 between the force resistor 2 and themechanical force input interface 1 and the disconnect 26 is designed touncouple the force resistor 2 and the mechanical force input interface1. The disconnect 26 preferably includes one or more of: a latch, acatch, or a pin retention system, however the disconnect 26 may have anysuitable design allowing it to uncouple the force resistor 2 and themechanical force input interface 1. The disconnect 26 preferably actsquickly, however it may operate in any suitable manner. As shown in FIG.13 a, the uncoupling of the force resistor 2 and the mechanical forceinput interface 1 caused by the disconnect 26 preferably causes areduced the resistance force 28 to be transmitted between the forceresistor 2 and the mechanical force input interface 1. In a secondpreferred variation of the action of the disconnect 26, as shown in FIG.13 b, the uncoupling of the force resistor 2 and the mechanical forceinput interface 1 caused by the disconnect 26 causes the elimination ofresistance force transmission 46 between the force resistor 2 and themechanical force input interface 1. In a third preferred variation ofthe action of the disconnect 26, as shown in FIG. 13 c, the uncouplingof the force resistor 2 and the mechanical force input interface 1caused by the disconnect 26 causes a change in the direction 29 of theresistance force transmitted between the force resistor 2 and themechanical force input interface 1. The disconnect 26 may, however,operate in any suitable manner and cause any suitable change in theresistance force transmitted between the force resistor 2 and themechanical force input interface 1.

In a second preferred variation of the trigger mechanism 3 of the systemof the first preferred embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 14 a and 14 b, thetrigger mechanism 3 is designed to cause a reduction in the resistanceforce transmitted between the force resistor 2 and the mechanical forceinput interface 1. As shown in FIG. 14 a the resistance forcetransmitted 42 between the force resistor 2 and the mechanical forceinput interface 1 before the action of the trigger mechanism 3 becomes,as shown in FIG. 14 b, the reduced resistance force 43 transmittedbetween the force resistor 2 and the mechanical force input interface 1after the action of the trigger mechanism 3. In a third preferredvariation of the trigger mechanism 3, as shown in FIG. 14 c, the triggermechanism 3 is designed to cause the elimination of force transmission46 between the force resistor 2 and the mechanical force input interface1. The resistance force 42 transmitted between the force resistor 2 andthe mechanical force input interface 1 before the action of the triggermechanism 3, as shown in FIG. 14 a, becomes the eliminated resistanceforce 44 after the action of the trigger mechanism, as shown in FIG. 14c. In a fourth preferred variation of the trigger mechanism 3, as shownin FIG. 14 d, the trigger mechanism 3 is designed to cause a change indirection 45 of the force transmitted between the force resistor 2 andthe mechanical force input interface 1. The resistance force transmitted42 between the force resistor 2 and the mechanical force input interface1 before the action of the trigger mechanism 3, as shown in FIG. 14 a,becomes the redirected resistance force 45 after the action of thetrigger mechanism 3, as shown in FIG. 14 d. The trigger mechanism 3 may,however, have any suitable design and operate in any suitable manner tocreate a change in the resistance provided against the force input 4 bythe user 5.

In an alternative variation of the system of the first preferredembodiment, as shown in FIG. 15 a, the system includes a transmission 46coupled to the force resistor 2 and coupled to the mechanical forceinput interface 1. As shown in FIG. 15 a, the trigger mechanism 3 iscoupled at least to the transmission 46 and the trigger mechanism 3, andthe trigger mechanism 3 is configured to control the transmission 46. Ina first preferred variation of the transmission 46, as shown in FIG. 15b, the transmission 46 is designed to control the amount of force 47transmitted between the force resistor 2 and the mechanical force inputinterface 1. In a second preferred variation of the transmission 46, asshown in FIG. 15 c, the transmission 46 is designed to control thedirection of force 48 transmitted between the force resistor 2 and themechanical force input interface 1. However, the transmission 46 may actin any suitable manner to change the resistance provided against theforce input 4 by the user 5.

As shown in FIG. 16, the system of the first preferred embodimentpreferably includes a trigger 49 designed to control the triggermechanism 3. In a first preferred variation of the trigger 49, as shownin FIG. 17 a, the trigger 49 includes a mechanical system 50. In asecond preferred variation, as shown in FIG. 17 b, the trigger 49includes an electronic system 51. In a third preferred variation, asshown in FIG. 17 c, the trigger 49 includes an electromechanical system52. In a fourth preferred variation, as shown in FIG. 17 d, the trigger49 includes a processor 53 coupled to an electronic system 54. Theprocessor 53 preferably controls the electronic system 54 and theprocessor 53 preferably takes input from at least one sensor or timer,however the processor 53 and electronic system 54 may interact in anysuitable way and the processor 53 may operate using any suitableinformation. In a fifth preferred variation, as shown in FIG. 17 e, thetrigger 49 includes a processor 53 coupled to an electromechanicalsystem 55. The processor 53 preferably controls the electromechanicalsystem 55 and the processor 53 preferably takes input from at least onesensor or timer, however the processor 53 and electromechanical system55 may interact in any suitable way and the processor 53 may operateusing any suitable information.

As shown in FIG. 18, in a first preferred variation of the operation ofthe trigger 49, the trigger 56 is designed to control the triggermechanism 3 automatically, preferably without input from the user 5 orother sources external to the system. In a first preferred variation ofthe trigger 56 controlling the trigger mechanism 3 automatically, thetrigger 56 includes a mechanical system that acts based on one of: theforce input 4 by the user 5 into the mechanical force input interface 1,the resistance force transmitted to the mechanical force input interface1 by the force resistor 2, the position of the mechanical force inputinterface 1, the speed of the mechanical force input interface 1, or anycombination of these. In a second preferred variation of the trigger 56controlling the trigger mechanism 3 automatically, the trigger 56includes an electronic or an electromechanical system that acts based onone of: the force input 4 by the user 5 into the mechanical force inputinterface 1, the resistance force transmitted to the mechanical forceinput interface 1 by the force resistor 2, the rate of change of theforce input 4 by the user 5, the rate of change of the resistance force,the position of the mechanical force input interface 1, the speed of themechanical force input interface 1, the acceleration of the mechanicalforce input interface 1, or any combination of these. In a thirdpreferred variation of the trigger 56 controlling the trigger mechanism3 automatically, the trigger 56 includes a processor that acts based onone of: the force input 4 by the user 5 into the mechanical force inputinterface 1, the resistance force transmitted to the mechanical forceinput interface 1 by the force resistor 2, the rate of change of theforce input 4 by the user 5, the rate of change of the resistance force,the position of the mechanical force input interface 1, the speed of themechanical force input interface 1, the acceleration of the mechanicalforce input interface 1, the user's neural activity, the strain of oneor more of the user's muscles, the user's heart rate, the user'sbreathing rate, or any combination of these. The trigger 56 may,however, include any design and use any information or criteria suitablefor automatically controlling the trigger mechanism 3. In a secondpreferred variation of the operation of the trigger 49, as shown in FIG.19, the user 5 controls the trigger 57 and the trigger 57 only controlsthe trigger mechanism 3 when given input 58 from the user 5. In a firstpreferred variation of the user 5 controlling the trigger 57, thetrigger 57 is a mechanical system including a handle or other mechanicaltrigger that the user 5 manipulates with one of: one or more hand, oneor more finger, one or more wrist, one or more arm, or any combinationof the above. In a second preferred variation of the user 5 controllingthe trigger 57, the trigger 57 is a mechanical system including a pedal,catch or other mechanical trigger that the user 5 manipulates with oneof: one or more foot, one or more toe, one or more ankle, one or moreleg, any other body part, or any combination of the above. In a thirdpreferred variation of the user 5 controlling the trigger 57, thetrigger 57 is an electronic or electromechanical system including abutton, sensor, or other electronic or electromechanical input devicethat the user 5 manipulates with one of: one or more finger, one or morehand, one or more toe, one or more foot, one or more arm, one or moreleg, any other body part, or any combination of the above. In analternative variation of the user 5 controlling the trigger 57, thetrigger 57 includes a processor that takes input 58 from one of: theuser's voice, the user's movements, the user's nervous activity, anyother user activity, or any combination of the above. The user 5 may,however, control the trigger 57 in any suitable manner that allows theuser 5 to control how the trigger 57 acts, when the trigger 57 acts, orboth. In a third preferred variation of the operation of the trigger 49,as shown in FIG. 20, the trigger 49 includes more than one triggersystem; at least one of these trigger systems 57 is controlled by theuser 5, and at least one of the other trigger systems 56 is designed tooperate automatically. Preferably the trigger mechanism 3 is controlledby a combination of the one or more user controlled trigger systems 57and the one or more automatically controlled trigger 56 systems. In afirst preferred variation of the combined automatic and user control,the trigger 49 controls the trigger mechanism 3 when the first of themore than one trigger systems 56, 57 acts. In a second preferredvariation of the combined automatic and user control, the trigger 49controls the trigger mechanism 3 when two or more of the more than onetrigger systems act 56, 57. In a third preferred variation of thecombined automatic and user control, the trigger 49 controls the triggermechanism 3 when all of the more than one trigger systems 56, 57 act. Ina fourth preferred variation of the combined automatic and user control,the trigger 49 controls the trigger mechanism 3 by mathematically orlogically combining the actions or outputs of the more than one triggersystems 56, 57 and applying a mathematical or logical criteria thatdetermines when to control the trigger mechanism 3. The combined userand automatic control trigger 49 may, however, operate in any suitablemanner and using any suitable criteria.

The trigger 49 is preferably designed to control the trigger mechanism 3at a point after the user 5 has begun a motion and before the motion iscompleted or the user 5 has reached the end of the user's range ofmotion. Preferably the action of the trigger 49 creates two or morephases of motion, one or more phase where the user 5 experiences greaterresistance and one or more phase where the user 5 experiences eitherlesser resistance or assistance. Preferably the transition between thesetwo or more phases of motion occurs quickly. The trigger 49 may,however, act at any suitable point, may create any suitable result, andmay act at any suitable rate.

As shown in FIG. 21, in a preferred variation of the system of the firstpreferred embodiment, the system includes a forcing device 30 coupled tothe mechanical force input interface 1. The forcing device 30 isdesigned to apply force 31 to the mechanical force input interface 1 inassistance to the force input into the mechanical force input interface1 by the user 5. In a first preferred variation of the operation of theforcing device 30, the forcing device 30 applies assistance force 31 atleast once during the operation of the exercise machine. Preferably theat least one application of assistance force 31 during the operation ofthe exercise machine occurs once for every motion of the user 5, oncefor every two or more motions of the user 5, at an uneven orpre-programmed rate during the motions of the user 5, or once for everyrandom number of user motions. However, the at least one application ofassistance force 31 during the operation of the exercise machine mayoccur at any time and any number of times in any relation to usermotions. In a second preferred variation of the operation of the forcingdevice 30, the forcing device 30 continuously applies force 31 to themechanical force input interface 1 in assistance to the force input intothe mechanical input interface by the user 5.

As shown in FIG. 22 a, in a first preferred variation of the forcingdevice 30, the forcing device 30 includes one or more springs 32. In asecond preferred variation of the forcing device 30, as shown in FIG. 22b, the forcing device 30 includes one or more elastic elements 33. In athird preferred variation of the forcing device 30, as shown in FIG. 22c, the forcing device 30 includes an actuator 34. In a fourth preferredvariation of the forcing device 30, as shown in FIG. 22 d, the forcingdevice 30 includes a pneumatic device 35. In a fifth preferred variationof the forcing device 30, as shown in FIG. 22 e, the forcing device 30includes a hydraulic device 36. In a fifth preferred variation of theforcing device 30, as shown in FIG. 22 f, the forcing device 30 includesan electromagnetic device 37. In a sixth preferred variation of theforcing device 30, as shown in FIG. 22 g, the forcing device 30 includesan electromechanical device 38. In an alternative variation of theforcing device 30, as shown in FIG. 22 h, the forcing device 30 includesa magnetic device 39. The forcing device 30 may, however, include anycombination of these devices or may have any suitable design allowing itto provide force in assistance to the force the input into themechanical force input interface 1 by the user 5.

As shown in FIGS. 23 a and 23 b, in the system of the first preferredembodiment including a forcing device 30, the action of the triggermechanism 3 preferably causes the net force applied to the mechanicalforce input interface 1 by the force resistor 2 and the forcing device30 to shift to being in assistance to the force input to the mechanicalforce input interface 1 by the user 5. As shown in FIG. 23 a, before theaction of the trigger mechanism 3 there is a force 27 transmittedbetween the force resistor 2 and the mechanical force input interface 1and there may be, depending upon the action of the forcing device 30, aforce 31 applied to the mechanical force input interface 1 assisting theforce input into the mechanical force input interface 1 by the user 5;as shown in FIG. 23 b, the action of the trigger mechanism 3 causes thenet force 41 applied to the mechanical force input interface 1 by theforce resistor 2 and the forcing device 30 to be in assistance to theforce input 4 into the mechanical force input interface 1 by the user 5.In a first preferred variation of the trigger mechanism 3 of the systemof the first preferred embodiment including a forcing device 30, asshown in FIG. 24 a, the trigger mechanism 3 comprises a disconnect 26coupled to the mechanical force input interface 1 and coupled to theforce resistor 2. The disconnect 26 is preferably designed to transmitforce 27 between the force resistor 2 and the mechanical force inputinterface 1, and is preferably designed to uncouple the force resistor 2and the mechanical force input interface 1. As shown in FIG. 24 b,preferably after the action of the disconnect 26 has uncoupled 40 theforce resistor 2 and the mechanical force input interface 1, theresulting net force 41 applied to the mechanical force input interface 1by the force resistor 2 and the forcing device 30 is in assistance tothe force input 4 into the mechanical force input interface 1 by theuser 5. The trigger mechanism 3 in the system of the first preferredembodiment including a forcing device 30 may, however, have any suitabledesign, carry out any suitable actions, and cause any suitable change inthe resistance provided against the force input 4 by the user 5.

As shown in FIG. 25, in another preferred variation of the system of thefirst preferred embodiment, the user 5 inputs force into the mechanicalforce input interface 1 cyclically 61 and the trigger mechanism 62 isdesigned to operate cyclically. In a first preferred variation thetrigger mechanism 62 operates one or more times in every cycle ofcyclical user force input 61. In a second preferred variation thetrigger mechanism 62 operate once in a certain multiple of cycles ofcyclical user force input 61. In a third preferred variation the triggermechanism 62 operates at uneven points or pre-programmed points withinthe cycles of user force input 61. In an alternative variation thetrigger mechanism 62 operates randomly within the cycles of cyclicaluser force input 61.

The trigger mechanism 62 may, however, operate at any suitable time ortimes during the cyclical user force input 61.

2. Second Preferred Embodiment

As shown in FIG. 26, the exercise method of the second preferredembodiment includes (a) the application of a force in resistance to amotion of a user; (b) a trigger event; and (c) a sudden change in theresistance force applied to the motion of the user. The change inresistance force either reduces the level of resistance to a motion ofthe user, or creates assistance to a motion of the user. The exercisemethod of the second preferred embodiment is designed to exercisemuscles in a way that improves muscle speed, explosiveness, or both. Theexercise method of second preferred embodiment may be used to exerciseany muscle of the body in any motion, providing any muscle in any motionwith increased speed, explosiveness, or both. The exercise method of thesecond preferred embodiment, however, may be used for any suitablepurpose.

As shown in FIG. 27, the sudden change in the resistance force appliedto the motion of the user preferably occurs within the range of motionof the user, after the motion of the user has started and before themotion of the user stops. The sudden change in the resistance forceapplied to the motion of the user may, however, take place at anysuitable point. Preferably the sudden change in resistance force createstwo or more separate phases of user motion, one or more phase withgreater resistance to user motion and one or more phase with either lessresistance to user motion or assistance to user motion. The suddenchange in user motion may, however, create any suitable result.

As shown in FIG. 28, in a preferred variation of the method of thesecond preferred embodiment, a motion of the user is cyclical and thesudden change in the resistance force applied to the motion of the usertakes place cyclically. In a first preferred variation, the suddenchange in resistance force takes place one or more times per cycle ofuser motion. In a second preferred variation, the sudden change inresistance force takes place once in every multiple number of cycles ofuser motion. In a third preferred variation, the sudden change inresistance force takes place at uneven points within the cycles of usermotion. In an alternative variation, the sudden change in resistanceforce takes place randomly within the cycles of user motion.

3. Third Preferred Embodiment

As shown in FIGS. 29 a and 29 b, the sports equipment 63 of the thirdpreferred embodiment includes a piece of sports equipment 63 and anexercise device 64 either coupled to the piece of sports equipment 63 asshown in FIG. 29 a, or integrated into the piece of sports equipment 63as shown in FIG. 29 b. The exercise device 64 includes a mechanicalforce input interface 1 designed to interface with a user 5; a forceresistor 2 designed to resist force input into the mechanical forceinput interface 1 by a user 5; and a trigger mechanism 3 designed tocause a sudden change in the resistance provided against the force input4 by the user 5. The force resistor 2 is coupled to one of: themechanical force input interface 1, the trigger mechanism 3, or both.The trigger mechanism 3 is coupled to one of: the mechanical force inputinterface 1, the force resistor 2, or both.

The elements of the third preferred embodiment preferably function inthe same way and have the same alternatives and preferred variations asthe similar elements of the first preferred embodiment.

The sports equipment 63 of the third preferred embodiment preferablyincludes one of: a bicycle, a rowboat, a racket, a bat, a club, a humanpowered vehicle, and a piece of track and field equipment. The sportsequipment 63 may, however, include any suitable device or equipment. Ina first preferred variation the exercise device 64 of the thirdpreferred embodiment is either integrated into the pedal mechanism ordrive mechanism of a bicycle or a human powered vehicle, or coupled tothe pedal mechanism or drive mechanism of a bicycle or a human poweredvehicle. In a second preferred variation the exercise device 64 of thethird preferred embodiment is either integrated into the oar supports orrowing mechanism of a rowboat or other water vehicle, or coupled to theoar supports or rowing mechanism of a rowboat or other water vehicle. Ina third preferred variation the exercise device 64 is either coupled tothe handle or user interface of a racket, a bat, a club, or a piece oftrack and field equipment, or integrated into the handle or userinterface of a racket, a bat, a club, or a piece of track and fieldequipment. The exercise device 64 of the third preferred embodiment may,however, be used with any suitable piece of sports equipment 63 in anysuitable manner.

As a person skilled in the prior art will recognize after examination ofthe previous detailed description and the figures and claims,modifications and changes may be made to the preferred embodiments ofthe invention without departing from the scope of the invention asdefined in the following claims.

1) An exercise machine comprising: a mechanical force input interfaceadapted to interface with a user; a force resistor adapted to resistforce input into the mechanical force input interface by a user; and atrigger mechanism adapted to cause a sudden change in the resistanceprovided against the force input by the user, wherein the force resistoris coupled to at least one of the mechanical force input interface andthe trigger mechanism, and the trigger mechanism is coupled to at leastone of the mechanical force input interface and the force resistor. 2)The exercise machine of claim 1 wherein the change in the resistanceprovided against the force input by the user is adapted to at least oneof (a) reduce the resistance provided against the force input by theuser, (b) provide force assisting the force input by the user, and (c)change the direction of the resistance provided against the force inputby the user. 3) The exercise machine of claim 2 wherein the forceresistor comprises at least one weight. 4) The exercise machine of claim2 wherein the force resistor comprises at least one of (a) a hydraulicdevice, (b) a pneumatic device, (c) at least one spring, and (d) atleast one elastic member. 5) The exercise machine of claim 2 wherein theforce resistor comprises a friction mechanism. 6) The exercise machineof claim 2 wherein the force resistor comprises at least one of (a) anelectromechanical device, (b) a magnetic device, (c) an electromagneticdevice, (d) an actuator, and (e) a flowing fluid adapted to induce drag.7) The exercise machine of claim 2 wherein the mechanical force inputinterface comprises at least one of (a) at least one pedal, (b) aplatform, and (c) at least one padded structural member. 8) The exercisemachine of claim 2 wherein the mechanical force input interfacecomprises at least one of (a) a bar, (b) at least one strap, and (c) atleast one handle. 9) The exercise machine of claim 2 wherein themechanical force input interface comprises at least one of (a) anarticle of clothing, (b) at least one shoe, and (c) at least one glove.10) The exercise machine of claim 2 wherein the trigger mechanismcomprises a disconnect coupled to the mechanical force input interfaceand coupled to the force resistor, wherein the disconnect is adapted totransmit force between the force resistor and the mechanical force inputinterface, wherein the disconnect is further adapted to uncouple theforce resistor and the mechanical force input interface. 11) Theexercise machine of claim 10 wherein the uncoupling of the forceresistor and the mechanical force input interface causes at least one of(a) a reduction in the resistance force transmitted between the forceresistor and the mechanical force input interface, (b) the eliminationof resistance force transmission between the force resistor and themechanical force input interface, and (c) a change in the direction ofthe resistance force transmitted between the force resistor and themechanical force input interface. 12) The exercise machine of claim 2further comprising a forcing device coupled to the mechanical forceinput interface, wherein the forcing device applies force to themechanical force input interface assisting the force input into themechanical force input interface by the user one of (a) at least onceduring the operation of the exercise machine and (b) continuously. 13)The exercise machine of claim 12 wherein the forcing device comprises atleast one of (a) at least one spring, (b) at least one elastic element,(c) an actuator, (d) a pneumatic device, (e) a hydraulic device, (f) anelectromagnetic device, (g) an electromechanical device, and (h) amagnetic device. 14) The exercise machine of claim 12 wherein the actionof the trigger mechanism causes the net force applied to the mechanicalforce input interface by the force resistor and the forcing device to bein assistance to the force input to the mechanical force input interfaceby the user. 15) The exercise machine of claim 14 wherein the triggermechanism comprises a disconnect coupled to the mechanical force inputinterface and coupled to the force resistor, wherein the disconnect isadapted to transmit force between the force resistor and the mechanicalforce input interface, wherein the disconnect is further adapted touncouple the force resistor and the mechanical force input interface,wherein the uncoupling of the force resistor and the mechanical forceinput interface causes the net force applied to the mechanical forceinput interface by the force resistor and the forcing device to be inassistance to the force input into the mechanical force input interfaceby the user. 16) The exercise machine of claim 2 wherein the triggermechanism is adapted to cause at least one of (a) a reduction in theresistance force transmitted between the force resistor and themechanical force input interface, (b) the elimination of forcetransmission between the force resistor and the mechanical inputinterface, and (c) a change in direction of the force transmittedbetween the force resistor and the mechanical force input interface. 17)The exercise machine of claim 16 further comprising a transmission,wherein the transmission is coupled to the force resistor and coupled tothe mechanical force input interface, wherein the trigger mechanism iscoupled to at least the transmission, wherein the trigger mechanism isadapted to control the transmission, wherein the transmission is adaptedto control at least one of (a) the amount of force transmitted betweenthe force resistor and the mechanical force input interface and (b) thedirection of the force transmitted between the force resistor and themechanical force input interface. 18) The exercise machine of claim 2wherein the trigger mechanism is coupled to a trigger, wherein thetrigger is adapted to control the trigger mechanism. 19) The exercisemachine of claim 18 wherein the trigger comprises at least one of (a) amechanical system, (b) an electronic system, (c) an electromechanicalsystem, and (d) a processor coupled to at least one of (1) an electronicsystem and (2) an electromechanical system. 20) The exercise machine ofclaim 18 wherein the trigger controls the trigger mechanismautomatically. 21) The exercise machine of claim 18 wherein the usercontrols the trigger and the trigger controls the trigger mechanism onlywhen given input from the user. 22) The exercise machine of claim 18comprising more than one trigger system, wherein the user controls atleast one trigger system and at least one trigger system comprisesautomatic control, wherein the trigger mechanism is controlled by acombination of the at least one trigger controlled by the user and theat least one trigger comprising automatic control. 23) The exercisemachine of claim 2 wherein the coupling between the mechanical forceinput interface and at least one of (a) the force resistor and (b) thetrigger mechanism comprises at least one cable. 24) The exercise machineof claim 23 wherein the mechanical force input interface comprises atleast one of (a) a bar, (b) at least one handle, and (c) at least onestrap. 25) The exercise machine of claim 7, wherein the force resistorcomprises at least one of (a) a hydraulic device, (b) a pneumaticdevice, (c) at least one weight, (d) at least one spring, and (e) atleast one elastic element. 26) The exercise machine of claim 2 whereinthe user inputs force into the mechanical force input interfacecyclically, wherein the trigger mechanism is adapted to operatecyclically. 27) The exercise machine of claim 26 wherein the triggermechanism operates cyclically at least one of (a) at least once percycle of cyclical user force input, (b) once in a multiple of cycles ofcyclical user force input, (c) at uneven points within the cycles ofcyclical user force input, and (d) randomly within the cycles ofcyclical user force input. 28) An exercise method comprising: (a) theapplication of a force in resistance to a motion of a user; (b) atrigger event; and (c) a sudden change in the resistance force appliedto the motion of the user, wherein the change in resistance force atleast one of (1) reduces the level of resistance to a motion of the user(2) assists a motion of the user. 29) The exercise method of claim 28wherein the sudden change in the resistance force applied to a motion ofthe user is adapted to occur within the range of motion of a motion ofthe user and during a motion of the user. 30) The exercise method ofclaim 28 wherein a motion of the user is cyclical and the sudden changein the resistance force applied to the motion of the user takes place atleast one of (a) at least once per cycle of user motion, (b) once in amultiple of cycles of user motion, (c) at uneven points within thecycles of user motion, and (d) randomly within the cycles of usermotion. 31) Sports equipment comprising: a piece of sports equipment;and an exercise device one of (1) coupled to the piece of sportsequipment and (2) integrated into the piece sports equipment, whereinthe exercise device comprises: a mechanical force input interfaceadapted to interface with a user; a force resistor adapted to resistforce input into the mechanical force input interface by a user; and atrigger mechanism adapted to cause a sudden change in the resistanceprovided against the force input by the user, wherein the triggermechanism is coupled to at least one of the mechanical force inputinterface and the force resistor, and wherein the force resistor iscoupled to at least one of the mechanical force input interface and thetrigger mechanism.